Exercise therapy is an integral part of teen treatment programs for addiction and mental health. It provides a powerful outlet for connecting with the body, relieving stress, and developing a healthy lifestyle. Exercise therapy can be used to address physical, mental, and emotional issues in teens by providing them with an opportunity for improved self-esteem and a sense of control. Venture Academy provides help for troubled teens across Canada struggling with substance abuse, mental health, and behavioural issues. Call 866.762.2211 to learn more about our programs.
What Is Exercise Therapy?
Exercise therapy is an important component of holistic addiction, mental health, and behavioural treatment. It has been proven to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, from depression and anxiety to substance use disorder. Exercise increases the number of endorphins released in the body, which makes us feel better. Endorphins are also known for reducing stress and improving mood.
Additionally, by engaging in physical activity, people can shift their focus away from negative thoughts or behaviours so that they can gain greater control over those patterns. Exercise can also provide an opportunity for social interaction and connection with other individuals who may have similar struggles. Ultimately, regular exercise helps to reduce cravings while replacing unhealthy habits with healthy ones that promote both physical and psychological well-being.
By participating in regular exercise and physical activity, people can gain improved emotional well-being, better cognitive function, increased physical strength and endurance, enhanced coping skills, and enhanced social competence. All these factors can play an important role in helping individuals to overcome addiction and mental health issues.
What Qualifies as Exercise?
Exercise therapy can be a great way to combat unhealthy habits, reduce stress levels, increase confidence, improve sleep patterns, and regulate moods. Exercise acts as a natural antidepressant to boost serotonin levels in the brain, which helps reduce depression and anxiety symptoms.
To qualify as exercise therapy in treatment, it must include some form of physical activity that works both the body and mind. Examples include:
- Aerobic exercises such as running, jogging, swimming, or biking
- Strength training with weights or resistance bands
- Yoga or Pilates classes
- Balance activities like tai chi
- Team sports games such as basketball or soccer
- Hiking or walking outdoors
Exercise therapy is an effective way to improve mental health and reduce addiction symptoms. It can also help you build healthy habits that last long after your treatment program ends. By making exercise a part of your routine, you’ll be able to maintain good physical and mental health for years to come.
The Benefits of Exercise Therapy for Recovery
Exercise therapy is an integral component of holistic addiction or mental health recovery. With its many physical and psychological benefits, exercise therapy has been found to be an effective tool for improving overall well-being in those recovering from substance abuse, mental health, or behavioural issues.
The benefits of exercise therapy for recovery include:
- Improved sleep quality and duration
- Enhanced cognitive functioning, such as increased concentration and memory recall
- Reduced levels of depression, anxiety, and stress
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Strengthened immune system
- Improved physical condition leading to a healthier lifestyle overall
- Increased energy levels which can lead to enhanced motivation and productivity
- Endorphins released during exercise can produce a natural “high” and improved mood
- Social support from exercise partners or group activities, which can be beneficial for those in recovery
The benefits of exercise therapy for addiction or mental health recovery are both physical and psychological. Exercise therapy can provide individuals with the skills to better manage cravings and emotions, develop positive coping mechanisms, and build resilience to stressors that previously could have caused a relapse. For these reasons, exercise therapy can be an important part of an individualised, comprehensive treatment plan.
Learn More About Exercise Therapy at Venture Academy
Exercise therapy has been proven to be a successful treatment for teens with mental health and addiction issues. Research shows that regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and even help regulate hormone levels. At Venture Academy, we offer specialised exercise therapy programs for teens struggling with mental health and addiction issues. Our programs are tailored to the individual needs of each teen and provide a safe, supportive environment for them to get the help they need. Call us at 866.762.2211 or fill out our online form to learn more about our teen treatment programs, like exercise therapy, and how they can help.